This guide serves as an introductory inspiration for assisting brides and grooms to be, planners, families, friends, officiates, other coordinators and wedding stakeholders:

• Opting for a theme for your wedding and designing anything and everything around, from and for it
• Theme weddings from start to finish, aspects, checklists, to do’s, mistakes and pitfalls to avoid
• Themed weddings can be cost-effective and affordable
• Types and samples of wedding themes
• Wedding checklists and planning tools, software, planners and professional service providers to make your life and wedding day easier and a dream come true
• Where to expect to spend and have to pay money for your dream theme wedding

… and so much more. Good luck with your personal journey and tasks ahead as you start your countdown to your DREAM THEME WEDDING!

More wedding theme ideas and inspirational suggestions:

• Valentine’s Day – red, hearts, cupids, gold, bow and arrows
• Cinderella – princess, tiara, formal gowns, ball, shoes – evening dinner and dancing, jewels, plated, served dinners, slippers, coach/carriage, footstools, crowns, satin pillows and castles
• Beauty and the Beast – satin ribbons, costumes, music, meal and characters from the movie, stars/voices
• Halloween - orange, black, green, ooze, scary music, costumes, much and gore, heavy-metal music etc.
• Winter Wonderland (see ice princess theme comments throughout), imagine ice queen, her snow coach (snow-mobile arriving), furs and coats, indoors or outdoors or outdoors brought in (simulating the cold, without sacrificing the creature comforts!)
• Black and White (Chess/ Formal)
• Autumn - fall and harvest colors schemes, orange, browns, yellows, trees with no leaves, pumpkins and wreaths, turkey and stuffing! Etc.
• Victorian, Medieval, Elizabethan or Reinassance-type weddings – full costume, pomp and ceremony

So…, for most couples and individuals, planners and weddings going down the aisle in dream wedding theme splendor, it is a dream come true, uniquely personal and an expression of who you are, what you want and like, it will stand out, be different, be remembered and totally unique – not to be mistaken for just another traditional set of events, with just another bride and groom and just another wedding. It will be, planned and executed to be something totally different a dream wedding like none other, for you, about you and around you and your guests, once in a lifetime, never to be repeated – the BIGGEST, most special day in your life – YOUR DREAM THEME WEDDING COME TRUE.

Use your planning process and personality to your best advantage to make your day count, your budget go that extra mile and your theme memorable, enjoyable and one-of-a-kind – JUST PERFECT FOR THE TWO OF YOU! It is after-all your day to have and to hold, to share and to cherish, make special, to your specification , inspiration and creativity – where will your dreams and fantasies of the perfect wedding take you? You too can have a one-of-a-kind, in a lifetime special wedding that is all you.

Your hobbies, interests, favorite time period, event, sport, sports-car, book, character, where you met, against the ruins of an old church, burned, destroyed and no longer there, Stonehenge, rivers, waterfalls, volcano’s, canyons, mountains, cliffs, castles and fortresses long forgotten, roller-coasters, casinos and gambling hall type receptions, towers and structures, drive-through chapels, even cemeteries and caves, bridges, even a 7-11 convenient store or bowling alley, ice rink, helicopter or boat, the locations, styles and types of theme weddings differ vastly. Apple orchards, magic shows, vineyards, bus, plane, taxi, surprise destinations for couples and guests, we want to be entertained and spend our money wisely on something that we will share, experience and remember together for the rest of our lives – that is simply WHY we do it – the HOW can probably fill volumes for years and generations to come.
If you are wondering where to start and overwhelmed by the task at hand, take heart. If a theme wedding is what you are after, you might very well be breaking new ground! Research and involvement is critical from the start for a theme wedding to come to full fruition. You are building and transforming space, process, moments into an experience for all to share and take in – it will take MORE than just flowers, seating, charts, menu and music selections to pull these off with success and results!
Here are some more ideas for your perfect theme and dream wedding… as if you were not overwhelmed and inspired enough…!

• Wilderness or Camping Theme Wedding
• Storybook Fantasy Wedding
• Movie Premiere Theme Wedding
• Mexican Inspired Theme Wedding
• July 4th Theme Wedding
• Irish Theme Wedding
• Indian Inspired Theme Wedding
• Garden Theme Wedding
• Cowboy, Rodeo or Western Wedding
• Costal Inspired Wedding
• Cocktail Inspired Theme Wedding
• Christmas Theme Wedding
• Butterfly Theme Wedding
• Brunch Theme Wedding
• Beach/Island Wedding
• African Inspired Wedding
• 1920’s Theme Wedding
• Florals
• Hearts
• Pearls
• Wines, Vitners, Wineries type themes, tastings and weddings on farms

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You can make your money go further for theme weddings without going the whole nine yards or overboard at all. You do not need to have an expensive extravaganza to be stylish, have good taste and ensure you and your guests have a great time and lasting memory, experience and shared moments with you and your spouse-to-be. A little money and oodles of creativity can serve you immensely well. You can get things done with much less than you expect to pay. Receptions and ceremonies can take place right at home and in your own backyard. It can be welcoming and intimate. You can have an informal backyard BBQ, a tent, canopy and aisle, seating and food prepared by loved ones, for just as exciting a time as any, whether seasonal, spring, cash-strapped, tight-or low budget type weddings, even informal family affairs, second or third weddings, etc.

Ceremonies and shared happiness have been celebrated in early times at home, with a few family, friends and guests to celebrate, wish well the newlywed union, and happy couple. Musical and culinary talents of the family was put to good use and everyone shared the load and joy of the work and cost. Beer on tap, grilling outside, pool-party type, beach-theme parties, social events and get-togethers, casual and up-beat are in question here, without all the trim, pomp and ceremony. New clothes, special cakes, sweets, treats, wine and lots of company and laughing can be just as fun as stressful large themed events. Decorations and buffets can make it cheap, easy to set up and take down, cost-effective and homely. Preacher , wedding officiate, minister, judge at city hall can take care of all the formalities and paperwork, either at the court house, church or indoors, outdoors and then the ‘celebration’ will commence, in casual simplistic splendor and enjoyment of all.

This is more like a wedding party and lots of young couples these days opt rather for theme-party type celebrations, like a rave, skate-boarder, pool-playing, jamming session type celebration, rocking and dancing, eating and drinking, putting all that money that would have been spent on an elaborate wedding to better use, paying of college or university debt, buying a new car, deposit on a house etc. or traveling.

Instant of small-scale weddings also do not appeal to all tastes and preferences, and even if you have to compromise on some things, your happiness and special theme wedding knows now boundaries, budgets or locations – anywhere and everywhere will be special as you are there and those you love are sharing in those moments with you.

Backyard style weddings and parties are big business and once you calculate rentals, food, decorations, pictures, gifts and thank you’s, invitations, attire etc., most will be able to pull it off with less than $1500! IT CAN BE DONE!

Ethnic , Tribal, Cultural, Religious, Occult or non-traditional , Ritualistic, Pagan or non-descript Wedding Traditions, Celebrations, Rites and Observations

Popular wedding themes, like the ones mentioned in this guide, like the beach, western, butterfly, ice princess, seasonal, flowers, even space or sports, etc. mostly get the preference.

However, sometimes merging two cultures, languages and histories, traditions and religious observations, celebrations and rituals can make for some interesting ceremonial challenges and reception headaches, not even a wedding planner might be able to just ‘straighten out or work around’ necessarily.

Heritage, culture, legacy, respect and mutual choosing to recognize where you are from, culture, language and religion increasingly is gaining ground and popularity in our multi-cultural society, where increasingly diverse couples opt to marry and celebrate with friends, family and loved ones. Truly unique, even spiritual, customized and individualized, couple-specific ceremonies, never to be repeated and not intended for mainstream are celebrated around the world. This is one sure-fire way to specifically personalize your wedding day and get the dream wedding you have always wanted and envisioned, feel you deserve. Your wedding guests will also appreciate and be treated to experiencing some of your wonderful cultural tradition, rites and get an insider, sneak-peek of/on your lives together as you start the road side-by-side, now united in marriage.

Very similar to the aspects in traditional wedding theme planning, all plans and details are as important and it is up to you to say where, what, how much or how little of it will be infused and present in your ceremonial and celebratory parts of your marriage event and day! As to what ethnic traditions you can or want to include, it needs to be discussed in detail, more specifically when you are utilizing the services of a wedding planner, who knows very little or lots about your culture, language, religion and union-celebrations. Here are some ideas to help you along.

Choosing Wedding Colors and attire affords you rich colors and fabrics, away from black and white or more sublte ivories or traditional colors we associate with weddings, silvery greys, golds etc. Make way for reds, vibrant multi-colored greens, coppers, orange, burgundy, purple etc.
Décor, favors, decorations, wedding flowers and bridal attire can all form part of the theme with an ethnic and cultural flavor. Asian weddings are notorious for including reds and yellows for example.
Traditional bridal attire for the ceremony can bae breathtakingly beautiful and an experience for your guests to observe as they learn more about you and your culture, where you are from and how we are all part of the global village and community around the world.

Ethnic and cultural inspiration, masks, candles, incense, statues etc. can all work, musics and pictures from your home-land and ethnic wedding decorations are increasingly popular. Examples of this might be orchids for Hawaiian cultures, lotus blossoms are popular for Chinese, Asian or Japanese weddings. Daisies and zinnias for Hispanic or Mexican wedding themes are perfect. You can accentuate, under-tone or use these elements throughout your wedding, settings and events.
Accents, props, songs, cues and colors enhance and infuse your context, backdrop with whom you are and where you are from – how exciting, rewarding and refreshingly PERSONAL!
Native country cuisine, music, traditional musical instruments, special event dancers or token ritual can go a long way to make your marriage ceremony and reception extra memorable and special for you, your partner, your families and circles of friends and guests.

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Planning any wedding, regardless of theme and size, can bring with it many an obstacle, challenge and problems. For theme weddings the risk and outcome, impact and consequences even increase! Below are a couple of the common wedding planning mistakes to try and not make for your dream wedding!

SPENDING WAY TOO MUCH – ON THINGS THAT DO NOT MATTER ONE BIT!

• Make guests and their experience a top priority
• Making a good memory count more than getting everything top-grade and upscale, most expensive.
• Spend your money where it matters and makes a difference.
• Avoid booking vendors and making purchases without risking losing deposits or overspending.
• Budget and track your spending every step of the way.
• Be frugal where you need to, cut when you have to and indulge when you can!

NOT PAYING ENOUGH ATTENTION TO CERTAIN DETAILS AND TOO MUCH ENERGY, TIME, EFFORT AND FOCUS WHERE IT IS NOT NEEDED

• Ensure that you are following permits, rules, state regulations, tests, paperwork
• Get all the information for your marriage license and ensure that it is valid at the time that you actually do get married.
• Some states have waiting periods of up to three days, some state licenses are only valid for 60 days. Enquire and check that you have your facts and requirements, ducks in a row.
• Spend your time and energy wisely on the things that matter and can make a difference on the big day.
• You do not have to be everything for everybody.

NO WEDDING GOWN UNTIL LAST MINUTE

• Alterations and fittings need to be scheduled
• Alterations, accessories needs to be purchased, made or rented as well
• Making dresses takes time, finding the right dress takes time
• Shipping and bridesmaids dresses will also need attention, so do not delay, hesitate or postponed this decision.
• Upward of six months or more might be required for a designer, couture or custom-made, even some of the more popular off-the-rack dresses

NO ACCOMMODATIONS FOR OVERNIGHT GUESTS, NO ROOM RESERVATIONS, OR AIRLINE TICKETS FOR YOUR HONEYMOON

• Especially in high season, book in advance – even if you think it will be quiet!
• Check all requirements, block reservations, hotel and room availability in advance
• Confirm all reservations and advise them speedily of any changes

TOO LARGE A GUESTLIST AND INSUFFICIENT CAPACITY

• Seating and accommodating all those additional guests might pose a problem. Learn to say no if you keep getting requests.
• Only fill cancellation spots with new headcount, do not keep adding on to the tally.
• In the end it affects the total quality and outcome of your ceremony and reception.

INAPPROPIRATE ATTIRE, ETIQUETTE OR NOT STICKING TO GUIDELINES, PERMITS, RESTRICTIONS and REGULATIONS

• Especially religious and cultural awareness, respect and law comes to mind. Ensure you have all the facts and instruct your guests, wedding party , even officiates of same.

GUESTS DO NOT KNOW WHAT THEY WANT, EXPECT OR MUST DO AT YOUR WEDDING

• Most people would not know what to do at your wedding, especially if it is a special, cultural, religious or alternative wedding, order of service and detailed programs can help.
• Always have someone on hand that can explain, help or assist your guests on the big day, answer questions, translate (if in foreign language etc.)

DRASTIC ACTIONS AND INTERVENTIONS TO LOSE WEIGHT, CHANGE HAIRSTYLE OR COLOR

• Avoid allergic reactions, breakouts, mistakes or, even worse, serious infections, leaving you less than perfect and desirable on your special wedding day!

INSUFFICIENT POSTAGE ON INVITATIONS

• Important guests might not receive their invitation and feel snubbed or ignored, overlooked and undervalued.
• Note that some invitations and envelopes will require MORE than standard postage
• Also, where you are sending the invitation matters – how much time it takes to get there and the response back, additional cost etc.

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Bridal showers, pre-wedding parties, rehearsal dinners, all these pre-event type get-togethers can be very helpful to prepare you for your big wedding day, but they can also make you more anxious as the excitement builds. The wedding theme can go for a little test-run to speak right here. Couple showers, jack-and-jill type parties for guys and gals, brides and grooms, to get ready for their homes, wedding, marriage together etc. can be great fun for everyone involved. It will also give you more of an idea as to what to expect from people’s reactions and enjoyment of the wedding theme that you have.

Maids or matron(s) of honor have the privilege of arranging these parties and related festivities, for wedding party, bride, family and close friends, wedding guests. Many opt to all chip in, contribute, organize, host and share the cost and planning of these get-togethers. They are typically more informal and for the enjoyment of all, as you prepare for the big day together. It is time to spend, share and have fun.

•   Where it is held, in or outside, restaurant, home or other location
• Date, time and attendees
• Typically held 4-6 weeks prior to the wedding
• Some still opt for the girls only type party, lunch, evening out and couple-showers are increasingly becoming more mainstream and acceptable
• Typical invitees to the wedding shower would be friends, relatives or work colleagues who in a few weeks will be sitting down to share in your joy as guests at your wedding

Keep it medium to smaller to ensure that everyone gets a chance to interact and share some time before the wedding. Menu, invites and theme can be borrowed or taken as inspiration from the main wedding theme. Shower games and activities, gifts and even music can make for a memorable day for the bride , family and friends.

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Wedding are extra special occasions and for most ONE, if not the important day in their lives. Stress, tension, planning, priorities, details, decisions, confirmations, information, pricing, lists, to do’s, checklists and more all occupy time, energy and efforts. Sometimes it is so easy to start feeling that things are getting out of control, lose your firm grip on what is where, who is coming and who is giving or doing what, that having it all in one convenient spot, like an organizer or wedding software solution on a laptop or mobile is just what the wedding-planner ordered and the bride-to-be needs.

Amidst all the chaos, small touches, favors, theme-related choices, wedding day things to take care of, you can also look at ways to make your life and tasks easier, more fun and smart!

• Administer and manage guest list, Invitations and RSVP’s easily.
• Appointments and reminders, organizers and scheduling tools to incorporate and set Accommodation, transportation, special meal requirements, last minute details, contacts and logistics at your fingertips
• Be in control and in touch at all times – without meltdown or Bridezilla-like tendencies
• Budgeting, expenditure, track receipts and spending
• Customize your personal and own unique envelopes, labels, cards, notes, thank you’s and place cards.
• DO NOT ALLOW PANIC TO TAKE OVER and ruin your life and wedding.
• Get and stay organized and focused
• Keep note and track all details automatically
• No not overlook or forget anything
• Prioritize
• Professionally manage your wedding from the beginning to the big day of your wedding
• Remember the important things
• Stay objective and make the best decisions
• Templates, seating charts and seating arrangements, plans and responders to use to send electronically or print/send
• Utilize tools and resources, like planners and software, professionals and quality, reputable and reliable suppliers

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There are many such wedding to do checklists available in print and online. Here is but once such example that can help you get, stay on track as you get ready for your dream theme wedding.

Up to 1 year before the big day

Yes 12 months ahead you can start planning – most planners will echo and advise you that the sooner you get started the BETTER! There is no time to waste or lose, with lots at stake – some locations are booked solid, for years in advance – you might want to reconsider if this is the case for your venue!

• Announce your engagement.
• Budget and BOTH determine how many guests may attend, individually and collectively, with parents and then finalize the wish-list, to short-list to final list!
• Determine the type of wedding you want and theme.
• Establish a starting budget.
• Get all your suppliers lined and signed up, committed and retained - wedding cake baker/decorator, video-photographer, musicians, and florist.
• Pick the wedding format, style (formal, informal, traditional, contemporary-modern, alternative, etc.) Ceremony and reception together, separately apart, indoors, outdoors, what time of year
• Select a caterer if not already provided for the reception.
• Select a wedding date and time.
• Select and hire a photographer.
• Select and order the bridesmaids’ dresses.
• Select and secure your ceremony location.
• Select and secure your reception location.
• Sign all necessary contracts, pay deposits to secure venues and track your spending/budget against overall

6 - 9 months PRIOR to the dream wedding themed event:

• Attendants and wedding party – identify, approach and confirm
• Bridal attire for bride and groom - wedding dress, headpiece, veil, tuxedo etc.
• Gift bridal registry
• Guest-list finalized
• Travel plans for honeymoon

4 - 6 months to go before your big day and special wedding event:

• Administration and paperwork: blood test and marriage license in your state.
• All physical check-ups doctor/dentist
• All reservations confirmed, including the honeymoon, reception, wedding officiate etc.
• Confirm all the entries/guests on the final guest-list prior to sending the invitations out
• Engagement announcement to the newspaper.
• Find a place to live after the wedding
• Mothers and Fathers of the bride and groom’s attire
• Select and order or print the invitations and stationery.
• Trousseau-shopping
• Wedding party and male attire all ordered, fittings, alterations and pickups scheduled
• Wedding rings and special jewelry

2 - 4 months before the wedding day:

• Accommodations for out-of-town guests.
• Confirm the wedding cake details with the baker.
• Designing and printing the program for the ceremony.
• Finalize the florist details, photographer, video-photographer, musicians, etc.
• Meet with planner and caterer for progress report, menu choices and finalizing , all catering details, set-up and changes
• Order of service confirmed
• Plan a rehearsal dinner, time and place.
• Plan the bridesmaids’ luncheon and any other parties (pre- and post-)
• Prepare all maps and directions for the ceremony and reception.
• Set the dates and times with the officiate for the rehearsal.
• Wedding guest book

6 - 8 weeks to go

• Hire the limousine or other forms of transportation for the wedding.
• Mail invitations and announcements.
• Prepare a portrait for the newspaper. Check your local newspaper for details and timing.
• Select gifts for all your attendants.
• Set appointment with photographer for your formal bridal portrait.
• Set appointments with any hairdressers and/or makeup artists.

4 - 6 weeks before:

• Wedding gifts for partner (bride/groom)
• Flower order confirmation and delivery date/time, location
• Confirm menu and headcount
• All wedding party clothes are sorted out, fit, altered and ordered, ready to go
• Fit wedding rings, pick up and keep safe
• Seating plans
• Order of service for ceremony and reception.
• Placement, seating cards
• Get all the wedding accessories, like ring pillow, goblets, garter belt, candles, etc.
• Purchase a going away outfit.
• Final fit of the wedding dress

2 weeks prior to the wedding day:

• Bridal party attire all ready and in good shape, picked up
• Business and legal aspects, will & testament, last name, address changes
• Get your marriage license
• Out of town accommodation confirmations
• Wedding announcement for the newspaper
• Wedding gifts arrangements, who to pick up and drop off at the new home

The countdown has brought you to the final week – yes, ONE WEEK PRIOR TO THE THEME DREAM WEDDING YOU HAVE ALWAYS WANTED…

• Complete place-cards
• Confirm the availability of the musicians and vocalists, confirming date, time, location and program/activities, fees etc.
• Delegate responsibilities to reliable individuals on your wedding day
• Final details with officiate, photographer, DJ, musicians etc.
• Final headcount and seating chart
• Fit on all wedding party clothes to ensure everyone will be looking their best
• Give a final head count to the caterer.
• Ground-transportation confirmed
• Honeymoon reservation confirmations, tickets in-hand
• Pack for going away on your honeymoon
• Personally call and follow up with those guests who have not indicated they are coming or have not yet given their RSVP
• Seating and ushers, plans and last-minute detail confirmations
• Wrap and present the wedding party gifts.
• Finalize your rehearsal dinner arrangements or other plans.

24 hours to your wedding day:

• Get a manicure or massage
• Get some personal time for yourself to reflect and prepare
• Go to sleep early, no partying until the wee morning hours – you want to look and feel your best
• Relax
• Review and rehearse all the details of your participants
• Stay with your family the night before

On the day of your big, dream-come-true themed wedding:

• Best man and maid of honor sign the wedding certificate.
• Eat and drink enough
• ENJOY
• Prepare for your hairdresser and makeup appointments.
• Rest and relax with a good bath.
• Time to get dressed and prepare – do not rush

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Up to 25% of all brides utilize a planner and the number is rising and increasing as people have less and less time, weddings becoming increasingly difficult and complex.

There are lots to see and speak to , between caterers, wedding officiates, pastors, wedding parties, cake, photos, music, food and menus, and other miscellaneous suppliers to source, negotiate and book beforehand, many get overwhelmed by the magnitude of what it will take to pull this event off!
No longer do brides have to face this alone. Lots of planners can step up to the plate and have you act with confidence, back-up and enjoy your wedding plans, preparations and special day, without the stress, tension, hard work, logistics and running around!

If has also become more mainstream and more affordable, acceptable to get/hire someone to take care of the wedding details. It is less expensive that you can image and package deals abound that make in attractive to delegate the worrying and even decision-making to a planner, who know what they are doing, have done it before, can avoid costly mistakes, errors and knows etiquette for themed and dream weddings. They are miracle workers under stress, strain and unforeseen difficulty. Bulk discounts, industry insider contacts can all save you money in the long run, regardless of your theme, dream and wedding day requirements.

When it comes to pulling off a themed wedding like the icy princess or beach themes (or any other themes), you need to ask

• What is the nature of your work, environment, personal and professional life, is it overly tense, stressful and highly demanding?
• Is traveling part of what you do professionally, taking you away from home a lot?
• If you have a heavy workload and schedule , do you have time realistically to play your special dream wedding day today
• How desperate are your for that professional touch – how important is it to you that everything goes well and looks good?
• Do you demand perfection, with very little effort on your part?
• Do you and your prospective marriage partner have the time to realistically plan everything for your wedding?
• Can you count on your parents, or opt not to and need the help of a professional?
• Are you living outside the area where you plan to marry?

Wedding planners can answer the call, if you answered in the affirmative to any, some or all of the above. In these cases having that continuous representative and insider-professional working for your best interest will be critical to pull off the themed wedding of your dreams. But it is not a necessity for everyone. Some brides, grooms and family opt to do it all themselves. There are so many quality resources available these days, that it is increasingly easy to find even pre-packaged wedding ideas, books, concepts for sale that you can just follow or customize to meet your needs, fit your budget and deliver your DREAM THEME WEDDING.

If you do opt to utilize the services of a professional wedding planner or event management team, ensure you ask and answer the following questions, issues and concerns, PRIOR to signing any agreements, paying any retainers and/or deposits on ANYTHING. Do thorough background checks, testimonials and meet in person if you can.

• Are they licensed and insured?
• Can they provide references?
• Can you work with this, afford it and need it?
• Do they accept commission from suppliers and is it passed on to the client?
• Do they have a video portfolio for you to look at?
• Do they operate on a full time basis or do they have another job?
• How do they charge, hourly, fixed fee or a percentage of your wedding budget?
• How long they have been in business?
• How many weddings they have organized?

Scope, nature and tasks, duties of the professional planner might include things for your DREAM THEME WEDDING that touches on

• Advisability of theme, suggestions and recommendations (initially)
• Budget and cost/spending plan, checklist for shopping and securing all items for the wedding, rentals and purchases
• Insiders, contact, sub-contractors and event suppliers
• Locations, suitable destinations as theme becomes more evident and finalized
• Making theme and design come together and practical
• Managing the wedding day and all related events, activities, staff, crises itself ON THE DAY of the wedding
• Payments to and of all suppliers, including deposits et al.
• Sending invitations

Dealing and working with a professional planner will benefit you greatly. It does cost extra and add to the expense to the overall wedding bill, but it could be worth its value in pure gold, if he/she is an expert and takes pride in their work, known for success and results, getting you your dream themed wedding to a tee – without you having to do more than pick the dress, get ready, show up and enjoy.

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• When planning your DREAM THEME WEDDING, not all of us have endless means and money at our disposal.
• Do price out, itemize and have some contingency funds available for last-minutes things, additions and crisises that might cross your path or you did not plan for.
• Weekdays are not off-limits for weddings, they are welcomed as not many people tap into them. Typically cheaper too. Pick dates between November and April to avoid paying higher seasonal rates or surchargers due to increased volume, demand and less space making it prime territory and hot commodities! Some dates might not even be available, so check and start planning as early as you can.
• Upon reservations ask for the manager, planners, rooms, quotes and more to get the ball rolling – the earlier the better
• Theme-elements can greatly and cheaply enhance the events and unfolding of your special wedding day
• Themed weddings might cost more or less than your typical ceremony or reception
• Themed weddings can make tight budgets work really well
• Lower the guest list to friends and family closest
• Hotels, all-inclusives, resorts, conference centers and popular wedding venues
• Have a plan of how the whole event, from start to finish will go and account for time (overtime costs money!)
• Guests can also contribute to the costs to keep it down/low and rather than gifts, donate their professional time as DJ, flower-arrangers, ushers, wedding officiates, centerpieces, choosing and shopping for the favors as opposed to giving gifts.
• Discounts and packages deals (when you stay at the hotel for example), blocks of rooms
• Digital cameras and camcorders are welcome and collages, not costing a lot of money, but priceless, will surprize you and save you money!
• Couples and parents, indivdiually and collectively can have input and say and should split the tally and costs (that is the more modern take on how to get things done, with most couples choosing to even elope to not deal with issues like these at all, just with their immediate family, friends or just the two of them!)
• Choose ONE location for both ceremony and reception to make things easy and optimize discounts/package deals if you can and it suits your purpose
• Ceremony and reception elements can underscore the theme and build on the overall experience and dream wedding theme you have in mind for your day and your guests.
• Calculate the cost per guest for your theme budget and make any adjustments necessary
• Beer and guests brining their own drinks are also quite acceptable these days as well.
• Any weddings cost mone
• You can save money on your audio and video etc. for your theme wedding.
• Getting married in city hall for the official ceremony and just hosting a small intimate reception or drinks, rather than pay all of that extra money can also be a viable option.
• Students and professional photographers, photo-clubs and amateurs looking for practice opportunity make great candidates for taking your pictures and video at your dream theme wedding
• Get a friend or family member to videotape the ceremony for you as well, instead of a wedding gift – you will be surprised how many would want to step up and take the responsibility.
• Students, hobby, casual musicians and entertainers, talent in your own family circles and/or community networks might be able to help you out or and MP3 player, hooked up to a system with music of your choice, might just do the trick, so no DJ will be required.
• Package deals save money but check the fine-print and details prior to signing – know what you get and buyer beware also.

When it comes to food and theme weddings, you need to pay closer attention to what you are putting on the plates, tables and into the mouths of your guests! It does not have to break or hurt your budget!

Catering and wedding budgets go hand in hand. Here is where most of your money for the wedding will end up going, believe it or not. Food and drink, linens, rentals etc. all add up. Add to that bill beverages, alcohol and the tab might surprise and shock you. Your per-head count and unit costs all drive this equation upward, so keep your guest-list in check and plan accordingly. All the activity, celebrating, feasting and merriment will need and demand food and drink and that costs money! EVEN FOR A THEMED WEDDING. There are however lots that you can do to minimize the impact of this.

• Types and how many hors d’oeuvres you order
• Using a professional caterer or not
• In-house or outside contractor
• Any additional service, gratuity and labor chargers, set-up , extra staff/servers

For appetizers offer cheese and crackers or mini items – this is not the main meal – just nibblies are fine and some mints/candy on the tables, should do nicely. It does not have to be elaborate.

Basic and smart menu-choices – not five-course meal if you cannot afford it (soup/salad, veg, main entrée & dessert coffee/tea just fine for most, backyard BBQ, with beer and ice-cream can also appeal to the backyard, out-door, informal wedding for friends and family, smaller scale wedding solutions with themes of your choice – beach party, sports-bar, hang-outs – anything and everything goes type parties

Per-person budget will drive the cost higher or lower – keep a close eye on this
Ensure that there is enough food for everyone, without waste or risk of running out

Volunteers, guests, friends and family can prepare all the appetizers, side dishes, bread, meals and salads, even cakes and desserts.

Avoid high-prices menu-items like shrimp, salmon, lobster and beef tenderloin. If you can afford it, include it as an appetizer ONLY to keep costs down and not sacrifice what you value (if it is important to you).

• Finger-food, sandwiches, snacks, drinks, coffee/dessert, breakfast or brunch are cheaper options.
• Food stations and buffets keep costs down
• Italian pastas and Mexican menus or buffets are typically cheaper and appeals to many taste palettes
• Offer a buffet style meal rather than a sit down dinner.
• Lunch is cheaper than a plated dinner
• Informal is cheaper than formal
• Theme foods are exciting and can be bought in bulk to keep costs down to – you have more of a personal say and handle on where and what is bought and how it is presented if you do it yourself
• REALIZE that the food and beverage portion of any wedding takes the most money, planning and actual work – especially if you are doing it all yourself!

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Take the sandy beaches and the ever-popular BEACH theme wedding, island, ocean, near water or lake, stream, waterfall or other bodies of water type weddings! They reek of the exotic, romantic, break and get-away we so all crave, imagine, fantasize about and WANT! Who would not want a beach wedding, even if you are in your backyard, in a reception hall and not on a tropical island, in the middle of the winter (and the ice-princess theme does not work for or appeal to your sunshine-craving nature!) .. the great news is, that themed weddings are versatile! There is something for everybody – so off we go to the other extreme and another illustrative example.

Being married on the beach at sunset… romantic, yes. Costly, out of reach, impossible … not necessarily!

If held on the beach there are some real challenges like wind, sand, apparel, footwear etc. permits, risk, contingencies, weather to consider… If held and simulated indoors at local locations that have nothing to do with the beach and are far removed from it, having to become and be transformed into tropical paradise through money, feature, creativity and hard work is what we hint at.

Here are other considerations as well to consider if a BEACH DREAM WEDDING THEME is in the cards or planning for you:

• Some beaches are public
• Both a ceremony and a reception can not necessarily be held there
• Some beaches are private and or do not have these restrictions – you need to verify this detail BEFOREHAND and well in advance.
• Privately owned by hotels, restaurants, resorts, and private individuals will bring restrictions, services and costs with it (or not)
• Ceremony and reception do not both have to be on the beach so to speak, most retire to a nearby resort, hotel etc. for the reception
• Patio’s and decks, vacation properties or all-inclusive resorts can also customize package and set-ups for you that can make your dream beach wedding a reality.
• Which beach to use
• General weather patterns in that area
• Various times / best time of the year for a wedding
• Avoid hurricane season, bad storms like typhoons etc.
• Permits might apply to hold any kind of ceremony on a beach or in public
• If the beach forms part of a city or state park you need to confirm this well in advance of starting to make your arrangements
• Inspect the site a day or two before the wedding at the same time of day that you will hold your ceremony
• Know when and where the sun sets
• The direction from which the wind may blow, tides
• If the area is level allowing for seating, standing crowds
• Any shading, tents, structures etc. that would pose a problem
• Chairs sink into sand – so specialty seating will be required
• Rental flooring might have to be put down to accommodation standing/sitting on the sand comfortably

Favors and Accents

Affordable favorites abound for beach themed weddings, even if you are NOT holding it outside on the real thing, but a simulated indoors-environment, climate controlled and comfortable, without wind, sea, surf, sand etc. to worry about!
For budget conscious weddings it can be a life-saver. A wide variety of choice party gifts, decorations and even centerpieces are available that will bring the ocean and beach right into your room, guest-experience and wedding of your dreams (even if the real thing is miles away)

• Sea shells, sand
• Candle stand filler (sand)
• Towels, beach balls, flip flops and umbrellas
• Grass hats, cocktail glasses
• Sea blue and green candles and accent colors for decorations
• Dolphins and other sea-creatures, fish, lobster, sea-horse, octopus etc.
• Floating candles shaped like water lilies
• Party favors, like mini beach bags, all shapes, colors and sizes, heart-shaped, shell-like, beach-shirt-type photo-frames, shell or flip-flop key-chain, sail-boat place-card holders, Beach-chair seating cards
• Nautical theme items, boats etc
• Weather, RAIN-PLANS, outdoor events contingencies, emergencies, cancellations etc. tent, or you can book an indoor backup site. THESE ARE ALL THAT MORE IMPORTANT WHEN YOU HAVE A THEMED WEDDING – BE PREPARED FOR ALL AND EVERYTHING THAT CAN HAPPEN AND COULD GO WRONG! PLAN, PLAN, PLAN…! Dream Themed Weddings give you the peace of mind and flexibility to have a PERFECT and GREAT day, despite and regardless of all of the above!
• Renting a tent can be a life-saver and bring your theme to life more, for both ceremonial and reception-type events
• Maintain an airy outdoor feeling, allowing breezes in, but keeping rain out and of your guests.
• It needs to be budgeted for under separate cover as an additional expense
• Canopies and square foot size will make a difference in costs, so check the details carefully to not get in way over your head!
• Opt for locations where both beachfront and indoor capabilities, or reserving a church fellowship hall are available and at your disposal, included or possible back-up!

From formal and elaborate, to intimate and beautiful, we find myriads of ways to exchange our vows and create great wedding events, settings, atmosphere and memories, unique, affordable and treasured! We mark the occasion with food, drink, music, merriment and favors, sharing treasured moments together, one of the most important milestones in our lives. Whether icy, warm, wintry, beach, outdoor, indoor, themed, traditional weddings, planning, budgeting, eye on detail, professional resources and input, verifying and checking all details prior to , during and after the event will take its toll on our resources, energy, funds and time – but in the end, it is all worth it.

Summer sun can get hot, guest get thirsty, windy beaches can be uncomfortable, standing around in sand, sinking away is not everyone’s idea of a perfect wedding. Advising of appropriate attire is considered common courtesy and appreciated by guests more than you know. Give as much information prior to the event to ensure guest comfort and smooth sailing on the day of your wedding, avoiding nasty or unwelcome surprises that you were not anticipating. Evening weddings, backyard weddings, might require more lighting. Serving alcohol at your event comes with responsibility and costs to consider carefully – plan well, communicate and execute well and you will soon look back on a splendid event that is YOUR DREAM THEME WEDDING.

Keep your guests happy and hydrated (with water that is!) Ensure some:

• Iced non-alcoholic drinks
• Bottled water in ice-filled buckets at the end of each row of chairs
• Personalized paper fans
• Umbrellas
• Sunscreen
• Anything in the bathrooms to show consideration and care for your guests will be noticed and remembered regardless of the theme or setting, indoors or out-of-doors!

For beach type weddings or out-doors locations, also pay close attention to other needs you normally do not associate with wedding planning, like

• Toilets and bathrooms – access and enough around to accommodate your guests comfortably
• Tides, closeness/proximity to the water’s edge, waves
• Sound, music, words, microphones, speeches, toasts, wind/breezes
• Regulations and restrictions
• Bugs and mosquitoes

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The WINTRY, SNOWY, COLD - Ice Princess Theme

winter celebration with a story and a twist, setting and icy backdrop, colors and beauty all come together under one roof, for one event – YOUR DREAM THEMED WEDDING. This is a sample of a combination, plot, weather and season-type theme. It offers beautiful blue hues and different shades of white and silver. Grandeur, elegance, style are all possible with the right combinations, favors and decorations.

A favorite of many a bride-to-be, wedding planners and other wedding enthusiasts, this poses great promise and challenge tied into one event, with lots of planning, creativity, budgeting and improvisation to pull it off! (*yes, luck and timing to!)

GET EVERYTHING RIGHT HERE that is needed for a spectacular event – MAKING YOUR DREAM WEDDING A REALITY HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER! WITH THIS GUIDE, IT IS AS EASY AS 1-2-3.

Choosing a theme?
Knowing the budget?

Which one comes first? That is entirely up to you and personal preference and means will most likely dictate, as will whether you are hosting and staging it yourself (DYI) wedding or utilizing the services of a wedding planner or planners, niche specialty providers, packages or customizing it from A to Z. Quality, affordability, themed décor, color, menus and other, might make discussions about financials actually a little easier – especially if things are tight. It is easier to talk about other things that the actual price tag – but if you deal with all these issues in the same unthreatening context, like provided here, many a family will attest to this under-sung and underestimated value of THEME WEDDINGS.

Extravagant or shoe-string and everything in-between and beyond is possible. Some set limits, others go all out and do not care how much they spend or need. This ONE example carries a budget of a meager $ 7,500 dollars all-inclusive for 150 guests! Sounds too good to be true? Stay tuned.

Having a detailed and itemized budget, with a contingency or shoulder fund for emergencies is an important must have even before the shopping starts! Take the guess work out and calm all fears on cost and overspending , nipping arguments and disagreement, avoiding and keeping fights about this delicate topic in check, having all calm and collected – couple, bride, groom, parents on both sides, best-man, matron of honor, wedding party and others. Prices may vary and need to be confirmed depending on your location, local suppliers, stationery and preferences.

HEADCOUNT, SIZE AND STYLE OF THE WEDDING WILL HAVE AN IMPACT ON THE BUDGET – DECIDE EARLY, BETWEEN THE BOTH OF YOU - HOW MANY GUESTS TO INVITE AND WHO TO INCLUDE AND NOT

• Cost for and of the invitations will depend on design, color, nature of printing, quality of ink, paper, process, supplier pricing, taxes, envelopes, stamps etc.
• Invitations are traditionally paid for by the parents of the bride
• Menu items should be listed to provide the caterers with the idea of how much of each entrée to serve
• Name cards that have to be made to seat the guests.
• Places of registry for wedding gifts.
• Should be sent to the printer well in advance (about 1 month) in order for the guests to receive them and R.S.V.P.
• Theme, place and time of the ceremony

** NOTE: do not forget the programs, maps and other inserts that you might want to include – in the quotes, pricing and order

Marriage Licenses and paperwork

• Not all states require a blood test.
• The groom and pastor, wedding officiate will take care of these aspects.
• This process usually takes approximately 3 days.
• To obtain a marriage license the couple must bring their identification and proof of termination from any other past marriages to the nearest City Hall. There may be a short wait as blood tests may be required.
• Typically runs you out-of-pocket in the vicinity of around $25.00 US $.

Donation to Minister or wedding officiate

• Best-man will usually take care of this payment and administrative task. Couples can give more or less, even for a themed wedding officiate (Vegas Elvis impersonator Officiate)
• Can be as little or as high as $100.00, depending – sometimes they have a fixed fee, other times it is at your discretion.
• They can attend the reception, invite them , most will likely not stay very long and just out of courtesy.
• This is the individual whom performs the rite, rituals and actually marriage – the officiate, the ceremony center-stager.

Hall Rental, location, destination (church/ceremony location & reception)

• Fees for both will apply, if held in different locations, package deals can make it cheaper (or more expensive if set-up, labor, clean-up and special requirements demand MORE).
• Approximately $300.00, normally with a deposit well in advance, booked and confirmed, linens, furniture, rentals etc. will at be determined at that time as well.
• Pick from multiple, multi-functional spaces, your perfect room (ballroom), outside set-up, tent, space etc. ensuring no construction, noisy disturbances etc. nearby, planned on in the vicinity that could damage or interfere with your perfect themed setting
• Try to choose a room with a pale or white backdrop for decorating purposes. The hall may add services such as waiters and may provide the catering for you at an added price. They will also offer other different services for you , for instance alcohol servers and entertainment. If you can locate a package deal for everything with the budget allotted you have definitely scored big.

Brides Dress

• Add magic and fantasy with quaint touches
• Adding glitter, rhinestones, pearls and sequences can make all the difference here , affordably so!
• Bridesmaids and mother of the bride ensembles, including purses, shoes and other needed items can carry the theme even further, without being too overwhelming. Dyes are popular too – colors for this Ice Princess theme are Ivory, Pale Blue, Silver, and Pale Gray tones.
• Light will reflect and shadows dance from reflective surfaces of jewels, ribbons and lace.
• Pick something that will not only reflect your own personality as best as possible but also underline your theme – you are in a sense brining your theme to life, when you wear that dress down the aisle!
• Price ranges will vary – for something simple and elegant, rental or self-made budget about $150.00 on shoestring, or borrow a dress!
• Show off your best characteristics and strengths, go for something elegant, flattering and practical, comfortable to wear, move in , sit down, get up etc. Essential part of the ceremonial wardrobe
• Small hints of blue, creates the subtle illusion of ice and water, snow and cold.
• This will take center-stage and as a focal point, should get some additional consideration, especially for a themed wedding

Personal care and grooming for the couple and wedding party, Hair and Nails, accessories and final touches

• Budget and book them/these treatments early
• Ensure there are no setbacks or emergencies
• Hair and hand bouquets should match and carry the same theme and colors
• Price it out and confirm your appointment in advance – discuss haistyling to suit your theme, but nothing too elaborate or drastic that can end in disaster!
• Tiara’s, hair-jewels, pins, even artificial flowers (in this case, white and pale blue) as well as subtle added touches, coordinated and understated, for her and the bridesmaids will round out the picture more, in accordance with the theme.
• Veil should match gown

Groom Tuxedo Rental

• Black or white are recommended.
• Colors of the cumber buns and choice of ties should be matching the bridesmaids dresses in either Pale Gray or Pale Blue.
• Even patterned vests (silver and grey) emphasizes and inspires the theme and its overall impact.
• Groomed takes on a whole new meaning once seen through these eyes! The groom and the other gentlemen in the wedding party arrange this prior to the event, well in advance, fit, buy, rent and arrange for pick-up/delivery, taking care of any alterations, emergencies and contingencies, including ties, shoes, socks and underwear!
• Just as important as the bride get-up and in feeling with the theme.
• Small details like cufflinks and cologne is personal prerogative.

Gratuities for Bridesmaids and Ushers (Optional)

• Gifts from bride/groom can include cufflinks, necklaces to wear
• Watches to keep etc. ,
• Gift-certificates or personalized notes,
• Some, any or all of the above
• Depending on your budget

Caterer

• As far as costs go, you are entering the thousands territory now. Unit costs and per head pricing is very common.
• Buffet saves money is the rule of thumb, especially for the side-dishes and the rest of the meal is served to you at the table.
• Combination-style seating and eating is most popular and most affordable
• Seated, plated, served dinners are typically MORE expensive
• There is the option of serving stations, serving from both sides, having someone dish out the food at the buffet etc. to ensure that all guests are taken care of, costs kept down
• This is a major expense for any wedding, headcount drives that number, so take care with keeping accepting guests, adding to the list of requests and additional requirements – as this will increase the costs – especially if you are having a themed wedding – every seat needs whatever you are adding and even at $0.25 per unit, x 150 (amount of guests) will make a difference!
• Typically the order of food and drink would be appetizer, for example, penne and wine, then salad and rolls, entrée then tea, coffee. Desserts will be served buffet style as cake will be served later in the evening with the champagne (traditionally speaking).

Cake, Flowers and Centre Pieces

• Ensure that you have a good knife to cut the cake, serving plates
• Lights, special treats and flowers can all add up.
• Pre-cut , boxed cake, pieces of wedding cake, can also be placed on the table
• Stick to the colors and budget and you should be fine on all fronts

Photographer, video-grapher, video-diaries, one-shot table-top, disposable cameras etc.

• Choose a package and also get family and friends to take some pictures, just to be on the safe side.
• Ensure you get references, referrals and the best deal for your money
• Family and other volunteers, amateur photographers can enhance your memories, without interfering with the formal pictures being taken
• Professional mastery can serve you well on this special themed dream wedding day!
• Take as many pictures outside as you can, white fur, snow, ice, lights etc. make for some great pictures. Props and backdrops indoors can also do the job

Décor & Decorations

• Setting the stage, tone, atmosphere, creating the space and world you want this wonderful to take place in will take some additional attention, time, money and creative flair
• You can do it yourself or get someone involved to make it happen – there are many professional stagers, wedding outfits, planners that can see to it – they do it for a living and may have lots of things and know-how that you might not otherwise be able to tap into or have to pay a lot more out-of=pocket to take advantage of.
• Make the most of white netting and
• Include and consider a lighted trellis for the bride and groom, with attached flowers and netting
• White candles in room and on the tables can create great ambience and warm/light an otherwise icy, cold setting and world – spreading the warmth and love around (watch those ice-sculptures!).
• Draping walls, windows, tables, nooks and crannies with netting, fabrics and lights can create the feel of ice caves. Sprinkles of sequins, rhinestones and confetti on all the tables with ribbons tied on the champagne flutes. Balloons and ribbons, banners, streamers all work well too. Satin, silk and lace make great companions to this theme too.

Entertainment, Champagne, DRINKS AND BAR

• Toasts, selection and limits are what counts here
• Best man will start the speeches and thank you’s off, introduce the groom
• State the bar costs and procedure, times on the invitation to prepare people on what to expect
• Normally for the groom and his family to pick up the tab
• Cash bars work well, open bar for a little while
• Watching that guests do not drink too much and NOT drive under the influence *you might be liable!

Limo and ground-transportation

• Book in advance
• Compare shop and get a package deal that suits your purposes best
• White, stretch, quaint and personalized, ribbons in the color of your wedding are appropriate too

Extras and favors are great ways to stretch your wedding, dream theme event dollar!
There are numerous examples of great wedding favors. For this theme, you might be able to find items like:

• Snowflake Shaped Wine Stopper – ($2 range)
• Flared Shot Glass - Set of 6 ($10 range)
• Classic Round Place Card Holders - Set of 12 ($25 range)
• Opt for snowflake candle holders with votives, snowflake candle holders or crystal snowflake shaped glass coasters for table decorations ($ 3 - $5 range per unit)
• Colored, textured, themed napkins, rings, place setting cards also adds some ambience

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